First game a spectacle, but Scots spoil Berry opener

ROME, Ga. – A standing-room-only crowd of 6700 attended the first game in Berry College football history. Once the game started, however, a veteran Maryville College team defeated the Vikings, 37-0, at Barron Stadium on Saturday night.

"Hopefully our guys took it all in. I can't say enough about the people at Berry and the folks of Rome," said Berry Head Coach Tony Kuczewski. "I told them not to take this for granted. It was an awesome environment. It was a great experience, but we're also glad the first one—and all that goes with it—is over."

Running back Travis Felder scored three touchdowns and gained 95 yards to lead MC. The Scots posted 516 total yards to 221 for the home team.

Maryville dominated the rushing statistics, 283 to 57 yards. They also kept a Berry defense on the field and wore down the Vikings. They led in time of possession, 33:37 to 26:23.

In the first half, Berry had trouble moving the ball. The Scots led in first downs, 17-4. Maryville held a 21-0 advantage at the break.

Berry's best chance to score occurred with 10:56 left in the second quarter. On a fourth down and inches from the Scots' 15 yard line, Viking quarterback Adam Sandin could not connect with receiver Sean Stassie, who was open in the end zone. Sandin played all but the final offensive series for Berry. He completed 13-24 passes for 123 yards and no interceptions. He also led the Vikings in rushing with 21 yards on six carries.

Backup QB Sandon Mims lead an impressive final drive for the Vikings. He completed all four of his passes for 41 yards. The Vikings, however, turned the ball over on downs at the Scot five-yard line.

Linebacker Anthony Batey recorded a game-high 15 tackles for the Vikes. Additionally, Mitchell Blanchard punted seven times for 283 yards and a 40-yard average.

The visiting Scots are 1-0 and the Vikings are 0-1.

Maryville travels to Emory & Henry next Saturday. Berry returns to action next Sunday when the Vikings host the LaGrange College JV. Game time is 2 p.m. at the Darlington School.